A 20-year-old Texas man has been charged with attempting to carry out arson attacks targeting Sam Altman and OpenAI, according to federal authorities. Prosecutors allege the suspect threw a Molotov cocktail outside Altman’s San Francisco residence and later attempted to set fire to the company’s headquarters. The incidents are under investigation, with officials warning the case could be treated as domestic terrorism depending on motive.
The suspect, identified as Daniel Moreno-Gama, was arrested after allegedly traveling from Texas to California. According to an FBI affidavit, he was captured on surveillance footage and found carrying a self-authored document expressing anti-AI views and threats against Altman. Authorities also recovered multiple incendiary devices, kerosene, and a lighter at the time of arrest. Court records indicate he told security personnel he intended to burn the building and harm people inside.
Moreno-Gama faces federal charges including attempted destruction of property using explosives and possession of an unregistered firearm. If convicted, he could face between five and 20 years in prison on the explosives charge, along with up to 10 additional years for the firearm offense.
The case comes amid heightened scrutiny of AI companies and their societal impact, including debates over safety, governance, and national security. Officials said the investigation is ongoing as they assess whether the attack was intended to influence public policy or intimidate institutions tied to artificial intelligence development.
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